solving the fiscal cliff in a manner that addresses the true drivers of our debt and saves american jobs will be a great way for the president to start his second term. and for the unity of our country and my colleagues, we're ready to work with the president to achieve those goals. >> reporter: on the issue of tax cuts, are you willing to accept -- [inaudible] what's our final deadline on -- [inaudible] >> increasing tax rates draws money away from our economy that needs to be invested in our economy to put the american people back to work. it's the wrong approach. we're willing to put revenues on the table, but revenues that come from closing loopholes, getting rid of special interest deductions and not raising rates. we think it's better for the economy, pure and simple. and secondly, listen, the american people expect us to find common ground, to work together and to resolve this. and, frankly, sooner is better than later. >> [inaudible] >> no, there's a stalemate. let's not kid ourselves. i'm not trying to make this more difficult. if you've watched me over the last three weeks, i'v